F-18 Avionics to F-18 Pilot.

[evade6317]

I did a search looking for a similar subject but could not find one. If there is one out there and I missed it I apologize.

Anyway, I am a prior enlisted Marine F/A-18 Avionics Tech ('97-'02) and am going to be fininshing up my degree next year some time. I'll have my CMEL upon graduation as well.

My question is, do the Marines take into consideration your prior experience with a particular aircraft when it comes to placing you? Considering I understood and fixed virtually all the tactical avionics in the Hornet and even had my turn qual, would that help me get my foot in the door to fly Hornets granted I don't screw up royally?

 

[gaijin6423]

Sorry, but it doesn't work that way. I was a prior-enlisted AVI type myself, now in the pilot pipeline, and there's no consideration for that. Hell, even a former S-3 NFO who came through my squadron got helos on selection. Needs of the Marine Corps/Navy, plus your NSS, plus what might be available the week you select. Of course, if you kick a$s and take names, then your chances of getting what you want are better, but still subject to what the service needs.

 

[TurnandBurn55]

Hell, even a former S-3 NFO who came through my squadron got helos on selection.

Well, I know there is (was?) an offer on the table for S-3 NFOs to transition to pilot, but they're explicitly told they WILL go helos before they go to the VT. He was probably one of those types...

 

[gaijin6423]

Nope, the LT I'm thinking of wasn't slated for any specific pipeline (that I know of anyway). He had the grades to go jets, that's for sure, but according to him, there were no slots available. He seemed content w/ helos, though.